Troubleshooting Lack Of Clearance Between The Trailer Frame And Axle

Updated 01/05/2026 | Published 09/21/2024

Products Featured in This Question

4-Leaf Double-Eye Spring for 3,500-lb Trailer Axles - 25-1/4" Long

(2502)

$58.80

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(859)

$82.90

Question:

I have a commercially built tandem equipment trailer with two 5200 lb axels and all new suspension hardware. With trailer empty I have 1and7/8 inches of clearance from axel to frame. When loaded to capacity but not beyond, I have only 1/2 inch of clearance. I have read on your site, I should have not more than 1and1/2 inches of spring flexion when at capacity. Does this mean I have a correct setup or 1 inch less clearance than I need? Only 1/2 inch seems like too little suspension to me. Should I replace my hangers with ones that are 1 inch taller?

asked by: Bruce S

Expert Reply:

Hey Bruce,

I'm assuming your axles sit above the leaf springs? If so that would explain the lack of clearance. Personally, I would not keep rolling with it as is and would either go with longer hangers like you suggested or pick up an over-under-conversion kit # K71-385-00. This would allow you to flip the axles to under the leaf springs, which would give you more clearance and raise the trailer by the diameter of the axle plus the height of the leaf spring stack. You would need one kit per axle and if you plan on completing this yourself you can follow along with my installation video below.

I've seen this issue on heavy equipment trailers we've had in the shop and the suspension just eventually gives and the axle will start hitting and denting the frame so this is something I'd recommend dealing with sooner rather than later.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Jesse M.

1/5/2026

Hey Bruce, how did things turn out after you tried the longer hangers or the over-under conversion kit on your trailer? It’d be great to know if the extra clearance solved the suspension issue. Your update could make it easier for others with similar setups.